With the Premier League season drawing to a close, Chelsea FC look to be in pole position to secure what would be their first title in five years. But they will need to get past an in-form Manchester United side on Saturday to increase the probability.
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The Red Devils will travel to Stamford Bridge in good spirits, after having decimated noisy neighbors Manchester City at Old Trafford on Sunday.
Chelsea — while not in the same free-scoring form of early season — are moving one step closer with every game. Now with seven more to go, and with a game in hand over their rivals, they will need positive results over their next two games.
The Blues will take on Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium after their much-anticipated clash with Man. United. If they can bag six points against the two, not much will stand in their way of being champions.
Mourinho & Van Gaal meet again on Saturday. Who will come out on top? Chelsea v Man Utd focus: http://t.co/q9bTGIc9H0 pic.twitter.com/wmWch3xRIK
— Premier League (@premierleague) April 15, 2015
Jose Mourinho may probably go into the match with a conservative approach, knowing that a draw wouldn’t be a bad result. If he is of that mindset, we can expect a cagey affair, but more than likely, he will set his team up for a win.
He won’t have the luxury of naming Diego Costa to his squad, as the striker is currently unavailable due to his niggling hamstring. Loic Remy — who also suffered a training injury — was not able to play against Queens Park Rangers on Sunday, but he should be available for selection.
Didier Drogba may fancy his chances, having scored in the reverse fixture, and also going the full 90 on Sunday.
For Louis van Gaal and Manchester United, a win could bring them nearer to unexpected glory. United are still in the chase, but usurping Chelsea and Arsenal would be the tallest of orders. Victory however, could see them blow the title race wide open.
Former Chelsea midfielder Juan Mata noted — in his blog — that his return to Stamford Bridge will be special. The Spaniard spent two years with the Blues, winning their Player of The Year award twice.
"From this Monday we are already thinking about our next ‘final’, a visit to the leader of the Premier League. Needless to say that it’s going to be a very special game for me. I already played against Chelsea in the first half of the championship, but going back to Stamford Bridge for the first time will bring me plenty of good memories, for sure.-Juan Mata"
Prediction
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With both teams in form, it promises to be an intense and competitive contest. The Blues’ home advantage give them a slight edge, but the Red Devils are brimming with confidence after their derby win.
Van Gaal has finally found the right mix, and his team will pose great danger to Mourinho’s side. Chelsea will have to be at their best on both ends of the pitch, but they have a knack of getting the job done against the bigger teams.
A draw, however, seems the most likely outcome.
Final Score: Chelsea – 2, Manchester United – 2